I’m a sucker for books. I love building my boys’ libraries, and never say no when they want a new read. In fact, instead of getting them cards on birthdays and holidays, I always select a special book and write a letter inside- that way they’ll forever have my special words.
Now that my household has entered the early elementary phase, I thought it would be nice to share non-cliché books my older boys are liking. These are great for Kinder-second grade.
My Kindergartener is obsessed with this chapter book which happens to be a series. With a “Toy Story” sort of twist, the charming book takes readers on an imaginary journey into the minds of their toys and stuffed animals. Told from the toys’ perspective, the cute and captivating book addresses complex emotions in the perfect way, instilling in them the values of being safe, loved, and confident.
Yes, this one’s nostalgic, and I admittedly have “Karate Kid”-obsessed kiddos. With that being said, this book tells the story of the first movie in a loving, elementary manner that the whole family will enjoy. A perfect bedtime read with fun illustrations.
If you’re looking for an educational book that conversationally showcases our solar system, this is it. This book teaches kids about the sun, in addition to introducing them to planets and outer space. The illustrations are adorable and cartoon-like and will keep kids engaged.
This was my favorite book series when I was a kid, so I’m thrilled to introduce it to my boys. I love chapter books because they encourage the kids to listen and let their mind wander… making up illustrations in their head. The Boxcar Children is an adventurous, mystery-driven series that’ll captivate kids and adults alike.
The bestselling book for every boy from eight to eighty, covering essential boyhood skills like building tree houses, learning how to fish, skimming stones and more. Featuring stories of incredible courage, this rad read stimulates curiosity, and makes for great father-son activities. And yes, there is one for girls as well (The Daring book for Girls).
If your child is just becoming a confident reader, the Frog and Toad series is a great starter book that’s easy, fun, and funny. Ideal for a first grader, the Frog and Toad friendship will make your heart flutter.
If you love music, you’ll adore this magical mystery tour through popular music history, featuring trailblazing acts from the 1950s to the present. Colorful, stylish illustrations bring to life artists like Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, and Madonna, plus bands like The Beatles, The Beastie Boys, and Pearl Jam. This is an excellent introduction to the greatest musicians of all time.
This adventurous and affordable series introduces the world to a brother and sister who discover a magical tree house filled with books. In the first book, the tree house takes them on their first journey: an adventure in prehistoric times.
You won’t like it… but they will! This book gets my kids cracking up. Seriously. They think it’s the funnies thing ever. There aren’t any pictures (duh), but it does have YOU saying the most ridiculous things. I promise, you’ll giggle too.
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Love this. The book is full of Mister Rogers’ poetry, songs and stories. It will make you laugh, cry, and inspire you to be a better person. The poems will encourage kids to open up about fears and concerns- some you didn’t realize they had. It’s a nice reminder of how their little brains hold so much wonder about life and how desperately they look to adults to help them understand it.